The European Commission has presented a number of short-term and immediate measures to strengthen the EU's preparedness for COVID-19 outbreaks in the future. Focussed on vigilance and fast response, the measures will ensure that new outbreaks will be contained to avoid generalised outbreaks.

Among the measures are several digital solutions, including the adoption of a Implementing Decision to support the interoperability of mobile testing, tracing and warning apps across national borders within the EU. This builds on the previously agreed interoperability guidelines and a set of technical specifications agreed between Member States and the Commission.

This will mean that citizens, especially those travelling within the EU, will only need to install one app but will still be notified about outbreaks and contact tracing in the country they are in.

To read more about this and the other short-term measures, including the provision of localised non-pharmacetucial measures and additional support for vulnerable groups, click here.